Problem home in Thurnscoe closed down

Lee Peace

A Dearne home which had become a hot spot for drug dealing and anti-social behaviour has been closed and the occupants kicked out.

The house in Lansdowne Close, Thurnscoe, has bee closed off and no-one can enter the property for three months.

Police were successful in obtaining a closure order in relation to the supply of class A drugs and antisocial behaviour following complaints from residents.

South Yorkshire Police said activities at the Berneslai Homes property, which was occupied by a 44-year-old woman, had been causing problems for residents living nearby for some time.

The problems got so bad that some residents moved out of the area.

Officers worked with Barnsley Council over a three-month period, during which time evidence was obtained of drug supply from the address.

In April this year, a warrant was issued to search the premises.

The 44-year-old occupant was arrested along with others at the address, the case is currently still being investigated by police.

Other people have been arrested linked to the drug activities at the property, they are currently being dealt with for their offences.

The closure order was granted at Barnsley Magistrates Court on May 13 after evidence was presented by South Yorkshire Police and Barnsley Council.

After the case, Pc Jayne Morriss, who led the closure operation, said: “There had been a number of reports of drug dealing and nuisance behaviour at this property for some time, leading to some residents moving from the area.

“The closure of the property is really positive for the community and I hope they can now feel safe and assured that we will continue to put a stop to this kind of behaviour.

“This is a good example of how the Dearne Safer Neighbourhood Team works with other agencies to tackle issues brought to their attention by the public. “

If you would like to report nuisance behaviour or suspect drug dealing at a property in your area, please contact the police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.